I've just recently heard it called "snake shot". I've always called it bird shot, though technically its just shot shells.
I do carry a revolver with 22mag shot shells sometimes in case of a copperhead sighting. They will be killed on sight even if I have to go out of my way to do it.
I wouldn't chance it with 22lr, walking stick might be better.
I'll be upgrading this spring/ summer to 38spl shot shells.